Definition of Target Population

The population to be identified must be defined and described. To identify children who may have health or developmental issues as early as possible, it is important to think broadly about needed programs and services and conduct child find activities accordingly. For example, needs may range from an eye exam for a child having minor vision difficulties to a full evaluation for a child in need of more comprehensive or ongoing early intervention services. Multiple state programs have a responsibility to identify children in need of these services. Programs that are responsible for serving identified children include: early intervention, preschool special education, Head Start, Title V programs for children with special health care needs, and state Medicaid and SCHIP initiatives.

The Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) targets all children with disabilities aged birth to 21 who reside in the state. Part C of IDEA, early intervention, focuses on children aged birth to three.